Offshore Wireless Power Transfer Interfaces for Variable Water Levels
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current technologies lack an effective offshore wireless power transfer system for water vessels that can operate at various water levels, including above, at, and below water, with features such as switchable power transfer sections, resonant inductive and capacitive interfaces, magnetodynamic power transfer, and thermal management, while ensuring efficient data transmission and modularity.
Innovation Solution
An offshore wireless power transfer system comprising primary and secondary interfaces with switchable power transfer sections, inductive and capacitive interfaces, magnetodynamic elements, thermal management, and data transmission capabilities, allowing for power transfer at different water levels and incorporating buoyant or nonbuoyant designs, modular structures, and integration with renewable energy sources like hydrogen fuel cells.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If wireless power transfer is implemented at various water levels (above, at, and below water), then the system becomes more versatile and adaptable to different operating conditions, but the device complexity increases due to the need for multiple power transfer sections and switching mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The power transfer system is divided into multiple power transfer sections (first, second, third sections) that can be selectively activated. Each section corresponds to a different water level operating mode, allowing the system to handle above-water, at-water, and below-water power transfer independently through modular segments.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates switchable connections that dynamically reconfigure the power transfer path based on water level conditions. The switching mechanism allows the system to adapt its topology in real-time, transitioning between different power transfer sections as water levels change during vessel operation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple power transfer mechanisms (inductive, capacitive, magnetodynamic) are integrated into a single system, then the system becomes more versatile for different water levels and conditions, but the device complexity and number of components increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system integrates multiple power transfer mechanisms (inductive power transfer, capacitive power transfer, and magnetodynamic power transfer) into a single unified platform. This multi-functional design allows the same physical infrastructure to support different power transfer modes depending on the operating water level and vessel requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
Each power transfer mechanism is implemented as a separate power transfer section that can be independently activated. The first section handles inductive power transfer for above-water operations, the second section handles capacitive power transfer for at-water operations, and the third section handles magnetodynamic power transfer for below-water operations.
3Adaptability or versatility
If switchable power transfer sections are implemented to handle different water levels, then the system becomes more adaptable to dynamic operating conditions, but the reliability may be affected by the complexity of switching mechanisms and connection points
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates redundant connection points and alternative power transfer paths that are prepared in advance. When the primary power transfer section is active, backup sections remain ready to take over if conditions change or failures occur, providing a cushion against reliability issues before they manifest.
Solution Approach 2:
The switching mechanism incorporates feedback control that continuously monitors water level conditions and power transfer effectiveness. This feedback allows the system to make informed decisions about which power transfer section to activate, ensuring reliable operation by selecting the most appropriate mode based on real-time conditions.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables efficient, flexible, and environmentally friendly power transfer to water vessels, reducing on-board battery needs, improving grid performance, and offering economic benefits while reducing environmental impact through modular and adaptable designs.
Implementation Method 1
resonant inductive and capacitive interfaces
Implementation Method 2
resonant inductive and capacitive interfaces
Implementation Method 3
magnetodynamic power transfer
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to an offshore wireless power transfer system for water vessels at least partially electrically driven comprising a primary interface coupled with a power source and a secondary interface coupled with the water vessel, the interfaces providing unidirectional or bidirectional power transfer which can be inductive, capacitive, and/or magnetodynamic. The primary interface can have connected power transfer sections which can be switchable. Inductive system can include inductive loops, capacitive system can include capacitive plates and magnetodynamic can include magnetic elements and loops. The system can be thermally managed. The interfaces can be buoyant or nonbuoyant, level adjustable. The power transfer can take place at about/under/above water level. The secondary interface can be mobile or coupled with a mobile device. The interfaces can include electrocomponents. The system can provide data transmissions, and be provided in a cloud-based communication system, a hydrogen powering system and a modular system.